Need advice - File FAFSA now or in Feb

Paying for College
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<p>All the schools D is interesting in attending have a priority deadline of March 1.</p>

<p>I could file now using my 2009 tax return, but I know things will change, and those changes will be favorable for me. </p>

<p>I know I can file now and correct later, but is that to my advantage? I have an appointment with my accountant Feb 8 (no, I don't have so much money that I need a CPA; clergy taxes are just weird). I would have my 1040 done and could file before the school's priority dates.</p>

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<p>Can’t you use your 2009 taxes and estimate what the changes to AGI will be? I’d say that if your estimated EFC would put you in the Pell-eligible category, there may be an advantage to getting an early estimate filed. It’s really not difficult to update the FAFSA to actual and, for some schools, the initial filing date can make a difference in the availability of need-based aid such as SEOG and work study. Is this for a freshman or returning student?</p>